THE FOODIE INC blogposts... it might be as simple as a profile on a food producer, outlet or restaurant; a recipe or top tips for foodie travellers. Occasionally, a guest contributor will share share something about food in their local neighbourhood or favourite holiday spot.

Love spending time at weekend food markets and New Zealand has so many fantastic ones up and down the country. Everyone’s relaxed and friendly – some are simply soaking up the atmosphere. For others it’s a weekend ritual, catching up with friends and stallholders while leisurely wandering amongst the stalls doing their weekly shop.

A couple of Saturdays ago we headed off early to Pine Harbour Marina, Beachlands for a nosey at the Pine Harbour Fresh Market - Auckland’s boutique gourmet food market. The weather forecast was rather grim but fresh coffee and breakfast beckoned, and we were not disappointed. Even Auckland’s fickle weather improved as the morning went on.

With a fabulous grassy space, it’s the perfect spot for a picnic, with loads of room for little kids with bikes, and dogs on leads to enjoy a stroll. The market stalls, with their black and white striped awnings, look out on to the marina and there are plenty of tables to sit down and enjoy your coffee and pastries. From fabulous French cheeses, freshly baked breads and sweet treats to Hungarian style sausages to NZ made mayos, preserves, cakes and fresh fruits and vegetables and so much more - there’s even doggy treats too.

With boats gently rocking in the background and jazz music serenading you, the French style market is set in a superb waterside location right on the Marina. It’s open every Saturday 8am-12pm - rain or shine, with plenty of parking too.

Saturday 6 December there’s a Traders Market , including a stylists props sale – perfect for Christmas gifts and wonderful vintage finds. And don’t forget the Twilight Market on Tuesday 23 December 4-8pm for those last minute foodie treats.